Dog Eared Books — Local services in San Francisco

Dog Eared Books is a beloved independent bookstore nestled in San Francisco’s Mission District, offering a welcoming haven for book lovers since 1992. The store is known for its eclectic mix of new and used books, with shelves brimming with everything from bestsellers to rare and off-beat small press titles. Customers consistently praise the shop’s well-organized selection, finding gems in every genre, including local authors, LGBTQ+ literature, classics, and science and technology books.

The bookstore’s ambiance is particularly noted: light-filled, cozy, and adorned with original art from local artists—much of which is available for purchase. The walls showcase colorful murals and vibrant banners, while the tables in the center feature well-curated remainders and deals. Customers can expect to find not just books, but an array of postcards, stationery, stickers, and even a rotating bin of free books at the entrance. The space feels less like a commercial store and more like a community living room filled with treasures.

A signature part of the Dog Eared Books experience is the warm, personal touch provided by the staff. Many reviewers highlight the staff’s friendliness, helpfulness, and willingness to track down specific titles or offer recommendations. While the majority of experiences are positive, a few visitors have noted occasional inconsistencies with staff interactions, but these appear to be exceptions against a backdrop of overwhelmingly positive customer service.

Atmosphere is where Dog Eared Books truly shines: handwritten receipts, creaky floorboards, the distinct aroma of old books, and sometimes even a resident dog greet visitors. The store is seen as a vital part of the Mission District, surviving the rise of big box and online retailers thanks to its loyal community and authentic, sensory-rich environment.

Vast, well-organized selection of new, used, and rare books

Warm, quirky, and creative ambiance with local art

Knowledgeable and passionate staff

Strong community focus and support for local authors

Occasional free book bin at the entrance

A true neighborhood staple, perfect for bookworms and...

Based off community word about this place had high expectations. It seems like everyone has found the staff to be amazing along side a vast selection of new and used print.

However my visit today was nothing like the experiences shared online and by friends. I went in search of a couple queer books. When I entered the store the cashier made eye contact with me and I smiled and mouthed a silent hello. Their response was a blank almost agitated stare. As I was browsing the LGBTQ sections the cashier passed by me to return some title to the shelves behind me and again I tried to be polite and gave a friendly nod as I stepped out of the way for them to pass by. They still did little to reciprocate or even acknowledge my presence. Upon checking out I felt extremely rushed and had wanted to ask about selling a used book but the attitude by the cashier was very short and not very friendly.

For my first time coming into Dog Eared Books this was not at all a pleasant experience and it's not close by. I like wont make the trip across town again since the book I did end up buying was even more than I could have paid at the bookstore just a few blocks from my home but I didn't want to walk away from an hour excursion...

I called first and ask if they would be interested in vintage books they said they had a buyer til 8 I heaed over there and gave the guy at the front desk my books I shop for 15 mins while he look up my books and he called me over there and wanted to buy 4 of them I said no the Robert Frost book north of boston he said oh well its not the first edtion I said I know that books worth 4500.00 this is the tenth edtion and worth 750.00 he said oh 550.00 and the other books had there dust jackets on them each one on ebay went for over 200.00 each so 500.00 in books his offer was 18.00 wow I know business and mark up and complete understand needing to maje a profit but that's complete robbery scam I said ok and he didn't give me a receipt of course not with deals like that don't want any proof of that deal going down they are cheats scam scam scam robbery 200 percent mark up that's insult watch out don't get done like thst there other books stores in town that a fair not try to take advantage of you crazy watch out don't get fool on this guy pricing he knew what he was doing no mistake about it...